Lecture on Galway’s tribal families

By Kernan Andrews Galway Advertiser, Thu, Apr 28, 2011

GALWAY IS known as The City of The Tribes, but who were these 14 families? What did they do? Why are their names still remembered today?

These and other questions will be answered at a talk entitled Aspects of Tribal Times in Galway by the award-winning historian and author William Henry in Cafe 8 at the Galway City Museum on Thursday May 5 at 7.30pm.

The lecture will examine the political, commercial, and civil life in Galway from the mid-13th century, when Galway was dominated by the 14 merchant families, disparagingly referred to as “the Tribes of Galway” by the Cromwellians, through to their continuing influence into the 19th century.

The evening will also feature a harp and song recital by Teresa O’Donnell, including songs by Percy French, whose ancestors were one of the 14 Tribes.

The event is being hosted by the Galway Percy French Society. Admission is €5. Places are limited and early booking is advised. To book contact 087 - 7990637.